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Elder ready for St. X showdown
BY MIKE DYER | ENQUIRER STAFF WRITER
Elder coach Doug Ramsey senses the confidence has returned for the Panthers.
It sounds simple enough, but the shift in attitude began during the summer and hasn't ceased.
Elder went 4-6 in 2005 - the first losing season since 1986. But, that season seems to be a distant memory.
"It's been fun," Ramsey said. "I'm happy for the kids. I don't know what will happen the rest of season ... but the kids have done a good job of creating their own identity. This year, they have realized 'this is your shot, your team.' "
After a 35-34 double overtime win over La Salle last weekend at The Pit, Elder (4-1, Greater Catholic League-South 1-0) hosts reigning Division I state champion St. Xavier (4-1, 0-0) at 7:30 p.m. today.
"They've improved defensively, and they tackle better," St. X coach Steve Specht said. "(But) I thought they were good last year."
Elder, ranked No. 3 in the Enquirer Division I coaches' poll, hasn't defeated top-ranked St. X since 2003, but the Panthers have several weapons on both sides of the ball that could change that trend tonight.
Junior quarterback John Groene has filled in well for injured starter Derrick Ventre, who has been out with a broken hand. Ramsey said Ventre, a senior, is expected to be out for four weeks.
Groene is 35 of 48 passing for 407 yards and six touchdowns. He has offered more mobility as the quarterback, according to Specht.
In the La Salle game, Groene completed 25 of 36 passes for 271 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed 24 times for 74 yards and a touchdown.
"He has played real well and he makes plays against great competition," Ramsey said. "He makes decisions and goes with it."
On offense, there are several decisions because there are several options. Senior running back Pat Williams has rushed for 395 yards and nine touchdowns.
Junior 6-foot-7 tight end Kyle Rudolph has become a favorite target during the season. Rudolph has 20 receptions for 255 yards and six touchdowns.
Junior wide receiver Nick Olthaus had nine catches for 130 yards and a touchdown in the La Salle game.
"They're skilled players," Specht said. "Rudolph is a freak. You don't see that too often. He's athletic and he can run and jump. He also has good speed."
Elder has had a strong defensive line all season.
Senior lineman Jeff Rieskamp had three sacks against the Lancers.
The key, however, will be to stop St. X junior standout Darius Ashley, who has rushed for 596 yards and six touchdowns.
Ashley carried the ball 35 times for 203 yards against Covington Catholic last week.
"Once you get into league play, there are no secrets," Specht said. "Doug is not going to say, 'oh my gosh, we are going to change what we do this week.' "
